Abstract We propose estimators of the stochastic discount factor (SDF) using large cross-sections of individual stocks. Our small-sample bias corrections allow us to exploit unbalanced panels of individual stock returns. Our estimators can accommodate prespecified traded and non-traded factors,...

We propose a new methodology for forming arbitrage portfolios that utilizes the information contained in firm characteristics for both abnormal returns and factor loadings. The methodology gives maximal weight to risk-based interpretations of characteristics' predictive power before any...

Abstract We propose new methodology to construct arbitrage portfolios by utilizing information contained in firm characteristics for both abnormal returns and betas (and, therefore, smart-beta risk premiums). Our methodology gives maximal weight to risk-based interpretations of characteristics'...